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<\/p>\nDeputy Assistant Administrator Shawn Arner of the U.S. Department of Agriculture will deliver the keynote address at this year\u2019s\u00a0 joint conference between the Kentucky Telecom Association and the Tennessee Broadband Association.<\/p>\n
The 25th KTA-TNBA Fall Conference & Supplier Showcase will be Oct. 15-17 at the Holiday Inn University Plaza and adjoining Sloan Convention Center in Bowling Green, Kentucky.<\/p>\n
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\u201cWe are excited about this year\u2019s conference,\u201d says Levoy Knowles, executive director of the TNBA. \u201cWe have some fantastic speakers that will cover topics vital to the success of rural broadband providers.\u201d<\/p>\n
Arner will describe the role of the USDA in broadband construction and discuss various funding opportunities available to rural broadband providers.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a timely topic and one of interest to all our member companies,\u201d says Tyler Campbell, executive director of the Kentucky Telecom Association. \u201cGrants and loans through USDA provide much of the funding necessary to successfully complete a rural fiber project.\u201d<\/p>\n
Other speakers will discuss a variety of topics including robocalls, the impact of STIR-SHAKEN technology, ways to build new revenue streams and other topics related to the financial success of rural broadband providers.<\/p>\n
The conference agenda is designed for managers, supervisors and other company employees involved in plant and equipment operations, field and network operations, customer service, marketing, and regulatory affairs. However, all company personnel can obtain important information and educational benefits by attending.<\/p>\n
The Supplier Showcase is a popular event where more than 85 exhibit booths will feature the latest in communications products and services. The showcase has proven to be an excellent, low-cost opportunity for KTA and TNBA member companies to allow their employees to see new products and discuss their needs with vendors.<\/p>\n